NEW ARRIVALS

All-new Volvo XC40 set to dazzle

The imported compact SUV was launched last week in China, retailing between 321,800 yuan ($47,515) and 398,800 yuan.

With expressive design, ingenious storage and smart technology, the model targets stylish and self-confident young urbanites.

The model has two engine options - T5 and T4 2.0-liter, four-cylinder - and is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The T5 version produces a maximum power of 185 kilowatts and boasts a peak torque of 350 Newton meters, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h within 6.4 seconds.

The XC40 is 4,425 millimeters long, 1,863 mm wide and 1,652 mm high. It has a 2,702 mm wheelbase. Technology from the easy-to-use center touch screen to high resolution driver display and voice control has a user-friendly feel in the model, making things less complicated.

Its City Safety aid technology comes as standard, like having a co-pilot on the lookout - identifying other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and large animals ahead and warning the driver if a collision is imminent.

The XC40 has the Volvo On Call app that connects driver's phone, tablet or wearable device with the car to provide remote access and a range of useful functions.

It also allows the driver to preheat or precool the car. The model's Clean-Zone innovation allows people inside to breathe clean air, no matter what quality the air outside.

The device uses an air filter to reduce the level of dust, pollen and other harmful particles.

It automatically closes the car's air intakes and switches to air recirculation if necessary.

The XC40, to be produced in China next year, will contend with rivals the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Volkswagen T-ROC is ready for action

The compact SUV made at the German carmaker's joint venture in China, FAW-Volkswagen, sells for 139,800 yuan ($20,625 ) to 209,800 yuan. It has two engine options - a 1.4-liter TSI or 1.2-liter TSI - and also two transmission options: five-speed manual and seven-speed DSG.

The 1.4-liter TSI version generates a maximum power of 110 kilowatts and offers a peak torque of 250 Newton meters.

The model's length, width and height are 4,318 millimeters, 1,819 mm and 1,582 mm respectively. It has two wheelbase options: 2,688 mm and 2,680 mm. The 2,688 mm option is 77 mm longer than that for the overseas market. The T-ROC goes head-to-head with the Nissan Qashqai, Skoda Karoq, Toyota Izoa and Honda Vezel. It is FAW-Volkswagen's first VW-badged SUV, which will be followed by four others over the next three years, ranging from subcompact to mid-size and full-size.

(China Daily 08/06/2018 page19)